Colorado opens first mental health crisis hotline

DENVER — Gov. John Hicknelooper announced Tuesday the launch of the state’s first mental health crisis hotline.

Mental health professionals will be available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year at 844-493-TALK (8255).

The news of the hotline comes one day after famed actor Robin Williams killed himself. Williams had been dealing with deep depression, family members have said.

“We do not want to lose one more person to the tragedy of suicide, gun violence, substance abuse or mental illness,” Hickenlooper said in a statement. “Colorado made an unwavering commitment to redesign and strengthen our mental health service support system and this is a critical step.”

Callers will be able to speak to experienced professionals, counselors and peer specialists who are trained to:
• Assess and plan for safety;
• Provide solutions and support to persons or their loved ones who are experiencing a mental health or substance abuse issue; and,
• Make referrals to resources, as needed.